Partnership Manager

The University of Surrey is a global community of ideas and people dedicated to life-changing education and research in an inspiring, innovative and diverse environment. With a world-class research profile, an enterprising spirit and prestigious business links that reflect our innovative and forward-thinking approach, we aim to achieve our mission through the talents and endeavour of our employees, embracing our values of Inclusion, Inspiration, Innovation and Integrity.

To achieve our mission involves a collaborative endeavour. Working in our Faculty Research and Innovation Office, this role will be focussed on managing Surrey’s relationships with industry, identifying new partnership opportunities and ultimately growing Surrey’s portfolio of large scale, directly funded industry collaborations.

About the role

As Partnership Manager for the Faculty of Engineering and Physical Sciences you will work with leading academics to drive engagement with existing and prospective strategic industrial partners directly aligned with the University’s research strengths. You focus will be on building strong relationships, translating these into long- term mutually beneficial partnerships. 

As the ‘route in’ for prospective partners, you will be responsible for understanding the internal stakeholders (i.e., academic priorities, research questions, networks and appetite to engage) and be outward-facing, with market and sector awareness – to proactively identify and broker new collaborations. You will signpost opportunities to colleagues and cross-sell, working collaboratively across the organisation and in line with Surrey’s research priorities, with clear targets to increase industrial income.

About you

You will ideally hold a degree in a physical science or engineering discipline or have substantial vocational and relevant industry facing experience, demonstrating management ability in an appropriate professional or specialist area, or success in similar or related role.

You will have strong awareness of business trends and emerging technologies / services in the engineering and physical science sector and practice a key account management approach. The successful candidate will be a strong communicator, relationship builder and will have experience of relationship management at executive board level. The post holder will have strong project management skills and commercial acumen, and a track record of securing industry funding with an associated network of contacts. As well as being truly collegiate, you should also be able to demonstrate leadership skills and the ability to think on your feet in a fast-paced environment.

This is an exciting opportunity and would suit individuals with demonstrable knowledge and understanding of the physical sciences and/or engineering, who possess a competitive, business led approach, and who are looking to have real impact in their careers through forging collaborations.  We welcome applications from those who are adept at building professional relationships and networks, enjoy variety, embrace change and have a strong sense of ownership and accountability. 

What’s in it for you?

In return we’re offering a fantastic place to work on a beautiful, green campus with a picturesque lake and excellent sports facilities. In addition to a competitive salary, you will receive a yearly incremental pay rise, generous leave of 25 days holiday plus 15 university closure and bank holidays, a market leading pension and supportive family friendly benefits including an excellent on-site nursery.

How to apply

Please attach you CV and complete the application form evidencing your experience against the essential criteria listed for the role. 

Interviews are planned for late June 2024.

For an informal chat, please contact Rachel Hargreaves (Faculty Research & Innovation Manager) at rachel.hargreaves@surrey.ac.uk

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